Auglaize County Courthouse
Courthouse Sq., Wapakoneta, OH Local significance of the building: Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Ohio has a rich tradition of aviation history, with several famous aviators hailing from the state. In addition to the Wright brothers, who invented the airplane, other notable Ohio aviators include Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, and Jerrie Mock, the first woman to fly solo around the world.
About Auglaize County
Auglaize County Timeline
Auglaize County, located in Ohio, has a rich history that spans several centuries. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Shawnee, prior to European settlement. In the late 18th century, American pioneers began to settle in the region, establishing small communities and farms along the Auglaize River.
The county's official establishment came in 1848, when it was separated from Mercer County. The name "Auglaize" itself is derived from the Native American term meaning "fallen timbers," a nod to the dense forests that encompassed the area. As the county developed, agriculture became a vital aspect of the local economy, with crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans being cultivated.
In the early 20th century, Auglaize County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of the Miami and Erie Canal in the mid-1800s greatly contributed to the county's prosperity, facilitating trade and transportation. Additionally, the discovery of natural gas and oil in the area spurred further economic growth, leading to the establishment of new businesses and industries.
Over the years, Auglaize County has also been home to notable figures and events. Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, was born in the county seat of Wapakoneta. The county also played a role in the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century, as abolitionists assisted enslaved individuals in their escape to freedom.
Today, Auglaize County continues to thrive as a vibrant community. Its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and strong sense of community make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The county is known for its agricultural heritage, charming small towns, and ongoing efforts to preserve its history.
The county's official establishment came in 1848, when it was separated from Mercer County. The name "Auglaize" itself is derived from the Native American term meaning "fallen timbers," a nod to the dense forests that encompassed the area. As the county developed, agriculture became a vital aspect of the local economy, with crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans being cultivated.
In the early 20th century, Auglaize County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of the Miami and Erie Canal in the mid-1800s greatly contributed to the county's prosperity, facilitating trade and transportation. Additionally, the discovery of natural gas and oil in the area spurred further economic growth, leading to the establishment of new businesses and industries.
Over the years, Auglaize County has also been home to notable figures and events. Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, was born in the county seat of Wapakoneta. The county also played a role in the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century, as abolitionists assisted enslaved individuals in their escape to freedom.
Today, Auglaize County continues to thrive as a vibrant community. Its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and strong sense of community make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The county is known for its agricultural heritage, charming small towns, and ongoing efforts to preserve its history.
Auglaize County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Auglaize County, Ohio.
- 1795 - Native American tribes cede control of the land to the United States government through the Treaty of Greenville.
- 1817 - Auglaize County is established as part of Mercer County.
- 1820 - First settler, Samuel Downing, arrives in what is now Auglaize County.
- 1848 - Auglaize County officially separates from Mercer County and becomes its own county.
- 1870 - The Miami and Erie Canal, which runs through Auglaize County, is completed.
- 1880 - The Wabash Railroad is built through Auglaize County, boosting transportation and economic development.
- 1908 - The first automobile is registered in Auglaize County, marking the beginning of a new era in transportation.
- 1942-1945 - Auglaize County contributes to the World War II effort with many residents enlisting in the military or working in war-related industries.
- 1981 - The Neil Armstrong Air and Space Museum, honoring the famous astronaut and Wapakoneta native, opens to the public.
- 1999 - The Auglaize County Courthouse, originally built in 1894, undergoes a major renovation to restore its historic beauty.